About Voluntas
What is Voluntas?
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Voluntas is a free, confidential and independent conflict resolution service supporting volunteers and volunteer organisations. Our accredited volunteer mediators and facilitators help people address conflict early and have constructive conversations about the issues affecting their relationships and organisation.
Voluntas supports volunteers, volunteer organisations and NGOs experiencing conflict connected to their volunteering relationship or organisation.
Who can use Voluntas’ services?
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We can assist with a wide range of interpersonal and organisational conflicts, including misunderstandings, communication difficulties, relationship breakdowns, disagreements about roles or responsibilities, and tensions between volunteers and organisations. If you are unsure whether Voluntas can help with your situation, we encourage you to contact us
What kinds of conflict can Voluntas help with?
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Getting Help
Is Voluntas’ service really free?
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Yes. Voluntas provides its conflict resolution services free of charge. Our mediators and facilitators volunteer their time and expertise so that cost is not a barrier to accessing support.
Can I contact Voluntas if the other person hasn’t agreed to mediation?
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Yes. You can contact Voluntas to discuss a conflict even if the other person or organisation has not yet agreed to participate. We can talk through the situation with you and explain the options. Because our process is voluntary, the other person cannot be required to participate.
Do I need to know whether mediation is the right option before I contact Voluntas?
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No. You don't need to determine the right approach yourself. Tell us what is happening and we can help you understand whether mediation or another form of conflict resolution may be appropriate.
Can I seek help if the conflict is only just starting?
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Yes — and we encourage early intervention. Conflict rarely starts as a crisis. Addressing concerns while they are still manageable can help protect relationships and prevent good volunteers from becoming disengaged or walking away.
Can Voluntas help if the conflict has already become serious?
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Yes. While early intervention is encouraged, it is not too late to seek support because a conflict has escalated. We will consider the circumstances and whether our service is appropriate.
The Process
What happens after I make a referral?
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Voluntas will review the referral and contact the relevant people to understand the situation and determine whether our service is appropriate. Where appropriate, two accredited mediators will be appointed to support the process.
What is mediation?
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Mediation is a voluntary and collaborative process in which an independent mediator helps people in conflict communicate, understand the issues and explore options for resolving their differences.
What is a constructive conversation?
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A constructive conversation is a facilitated discussion that gives participants an opportunity to listen to each other, identify the issues in dispute, understand what matters to each person, explore options and work towards practical solutions.
Who will facilitate the conversation?
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Voluntas uses trained and accredited mediators and facilitators who volunteer their time and expertise. Typically, two Voluntas facilitators are appointed, with an experienced mediator mentoring a less experienced facilitator.
Do I have to sit in the same room as the other person?
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The appropriate format will depend on the circumstances and will be discussed with the participants as part of arranging the process.
What if the other person doesn't want to participate?
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Voluntas’ process is voluntary and collaborative, so we cannot require someone to participate. We will work with the people involved to understand whether a conversation is possible and appropriate. Even if mediation does not proceed, contacting us can be a useful first step in understanding your options.
How long does the process take?
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Voluntas aims to help people address and resolve conflict as soon as possible. We understand that unresolved conflict can place strain on individuals, volunteers and organisations, so we work to progress matters promptly.
The timing also depends on the availability and willingness of everyone involved to participate. We will work with the participants to find a suitable time and approach, allowing enough time for everyone to engage properly in the process.
Confidentiality and Independence
Is the process confidential?
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Yes. Voluntas’ service is confidential. The specific confidentiality arrangements will be explained to participants before the process begins, including any circumstances where information may need to be disclosed.
Will Voluntas tell my organisation what I said?
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Voluntas does not act as an investigator or take sides in a dispute. The substance of discussions is generally confidential and is not reported back to the organisation or other parties. Any arrangements about communicating an outcome will be discussed and agreed with participants.
Will Voluntas take sides?
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No. Voluntas is independent and does not determine who is right or wrong. Our mediators and facilitators are there to support a fair and constructive process, giving everyone an opportunity to be heard.
Will Voluntas investigate my complaint?
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No. Voluntas is a conflict resolution service, not an investigative or disciplinary body. If a matter requires a formal complaints, disciplinary, safeguarding, legal or other specialist process, we may recommend that the appropriate process is followed.
Outcomes
Where does the mediation take place?
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The location and format will depend on the circumstances and practical needs of the participants. Voluntas will discuss the arrangements with you.
How long does the process take?
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The time required depends on the nature and complexity of the conflict. Voluntas will discuss the process and practical arrangements with participants.
Can a support person attend?
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This will depend on the circumstances and the needs of the participants. Please discuss this with Voluntas before the session.
What if I’m not sure whether my situation is suitable for Voluntas?
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That’s okay. You don't need to be certain that your situation is suitable for mediation before contacting us. Tell us what is happening and we can help determine whether Voluntas can assist.